Meet Beidi Wang | Producer, Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Beidi Wang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Beidi, what role has risk played in your life or career?
“I consider taking risks as a way to explore the world. I grew up in an ordinary working-class family, where my parents’ stable jobs and meticulous personalities helped me avoid many risks, even making many life decisions for me directly. However, I found myself not satisfied with growing up under the protection of my parents. I am filled with curiosities about the world; In high school, I would meet people I befriended with online. I used the money my mom gave me for the Olympics math class to get in a pottery class. I argue a lot with my mom, do things outside of my comfort zone, and oftentimes fail.

I studied Journalism in college. I talk to different people, especially those with “the unusual” stories to tell, such as acrobats, restaurant owners, youth with drug issues. Afterward, my yearning for movies led me to apply to a graduate film school after my undergraduate study. With no prior experience and no budget, I used a DSLR camera and two classmates as actors to complete the roles of screenwriting, cinematography, and editing. With an attitude of impossibility, this short film got me into USC’s Film and Television Production graduate program.

I’d like to know unique, kind, and genuine people. I enjoy making friends with these individuals, even though their identities may be somewhat seen as unconventional. My first project at graduate school tells the story of an OnlyFans girl and a news reporter, both archetypes inspired by my actual friends. I like experimenting with my visual works, combining different possibilities, and discovering yet unnoticed perspectives. The stories I piece together often depict the diverse and surreal aspects of people in the city, connecting the underdeveloped realms with the fusion of humanities, society, and visual arts.”

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am particularly thrilled about delving into the nuanced aspects of human existence that distinguish us from one another. My forte is capturing the intricate details, subtle emotions in the mundane life, and questioning the social norms that people consider established rules. I enjoy deconstructing and dissecting these societal norms, dramatizing these moments, and weaving them into complete stories. My affinity for film photography has led me to showcase my own photography exhibition. Music has also had a profound influence on my work.

In overcoming challenges, I have found solace in allowing myself time for introspection. I resist the urge to rush for results, and I grant myself the necessary time for introspection and recovery if mistakes are made. This approach allows me to absorb lessons and nurture my creative spirit. One of the most crucial lessons I’ve recently learned is the importance of being honest with who I am. It’s actually more difficult doing than saying. It’s not about being unique or self-centered, but rather facing yourself candidly, without evading the vulnerabilities that come with it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Embarking on a week-long adventure in Los Angeles, I’d kick off with a cultural immersion at the Getty Museum, exploring art collections and the panoramic city views, and enjoying a live music performance at the iconic Hollywood Bowl.

I would be dedicated to catching an NBA Lakers game, showing my friends the electric atmosphere, and cheering for my favorite team, and going to San Gabriel for authentic Chinese cuisine.

For a nature retreat day, I will take my friends to Sequoia National Park, hiking through scenic trails surrounded by towering sequoia trees.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Mardy Ma is the leading actress of my thesis film Wax and Wane. Gege Fu is the First AD of my thesis film Wax and Wane.
John Yu is my life partner who supports my group of work.

Website: https://www.oaksquarepictures.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unicorniscool/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beidiwangofficials/

Image Credits
NYAFF, LA Shorts Fest